The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the commencement of clinical trials for two potential treatments targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola currently driving an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the trial officially began on Thursday with the enrolment of the first patient. The study is evaluating the monoclonal antibody MBP134 and the antiviral drug remdesivir, both individually and in combination.
The Bundibugyo species of Ebola has no approved vaccine or specific treatment and has been spreading across northeastern provinces of the DRC. WHO figures indicate 1,406 confirmed cases, 438 confirmed deaths, and 208 recoveries so far.
Tedros said the clinical trial is being conducted by the DRC’s National Institute for Biomedical Research with support from the WHO and other partners. He noted that participants will receive comprehensive supportive care and close monitoring throughout the study.
He added that efforts are ongoing to ensure access to the drugs for patients should they prove safe and effective during the trial phase.
Health authorities say the trial represents a critical step toward addressing one of the most dangerous viral outbreaks in the region.
